Beginning, Section II, Next Section
Posted on Tuesday, 27 November 2001
November 7
Chris and Sandy hung up their lab coats and scrubbed their hands.
"Man, I feel like such a sissy with all the hand lotion I use. This endless hand washing is drying out my skin something fierce."
"Get used to it, Sandy, you know how often doctors have to wash their hands."
"I have nothing against cleanliness. But this soap is strong stuff."
They walked out into the fresh air, and Chris brought up the subject of the double date.
"Have you thought about what movie to see?"
Sandy groaned, "Ugh, the negotiations of the first-date movie. I supposed the girls would want to see a chick flick. What's around that's neutral? You know, not too girlie, not too macho?"
"Harry Potter?"
"Gee, think we're old enough?"
"Come on, at least it will have special effects. OH, but it isn't out yet. Well, we'll think of something."
"OK, I give you my proxy in the vote. I'll see you later."
As they walked into the coffee shop, Kitty nudged Georgie, "Over there, see?"
Georgie nodded and the two girls walked toward a table.
"Hi!"
"Hi," Chris smiled and stood up. He pulled out a chair for Georgie and then for Kitty. "Sandy couldn't make it. He has been tutoring one of the first-year students, and the guy is freaking over an upcoming practical. So Sandy is being a nice guy and giving him an extra hour."
A waitress appeared and the trio placed their orders.
"So," said Chris, holding out a newspaper. "What do you want to see this weekend?"
Georgie shrugged and looked down at her coffee. "I don't know," she said in a timid voice. She glanced up at Kitty, willing her to make a suggestion.
Chris spoke up first. "Well, if you want a good scare, what about 'From Hell,' the Jack the Ripper movie."
Kitty looked a Georgie and immediately spoke up, "No Ripper movies."
"Uh, OK." Chris looked curious, but didn't ask. " Maybe 'Shallow Hal?'"
"Um," Georgie seemed fascinated with her coffee.
"What?" asked Chris. "Tell me."
"I had this friend up in Boston. She was overweight and really unhappy. I don't want to see a movie that's a fat joke. I'm sorry."
"Don't apologize, Georgie. It didn't occur to me that the movie would bother you. You're both slim, and I assumed it was natural."
"Oh, yes, I'm blessed with a fast metabolism. I've never been overweight. I can eat pretty much what I want."
"Yeah," giggled Kitty. "You should see her pack away the cookies her housekeeper bakes."
Chris perked up. "You have a connection to home-baked cookies? I think I'm in love!"
Georgie made a face, "It's so nice to be appreciated!"
"Well, you better watch it missy, because that fast metabolism will slow down someday. I can just picture a middle-aged Georgiana, morphing from this slim reed into the Blob!"
Georgie reached over and mussed his hair, "If I'll be fat, you'll be balding! What a lovely couple we'll make!" She blushed when she realized the implication.
Chris looked into her eyes and smiled, "I can think of worse fates." Then he remembered that they weren't alone and added, "But in the meantime, we need to pick a move before we become middle-aged."
They returned to looking at the movie listings. Georgie pointed, "How about this one?"
"Really? I've been wanting to see that. Kitty, what do you think?"
"Sure, I loved Fargo, so I'm willing to check this one out. Will Sandy like it?"
"I think so. If he objects, I'll tell him your first choice was a weepy chick-flick. That'll shut him up."
"Are you sure this is all right?"
"I don't mind the food court. I haven't been here in ages. I like the way they've modernized the food service."
"I'm sorry that I don't have more time."
"Don't worry, Jane. This is fine. I'm more interesting in a friendly face than the food, anyhow. I'm still bummed from the Series, and you are the perfect tonic."
"But, Charles, I thought reporters were supposed to be neutral."
"Well, my column is about my thoughts, so I don't have to be neutral. I used to have to do that, and I guess I still could. But I enjoy editorializing and cheering my team on."
"I'm sorry the Yankees lost."
"So am I. It would have been the perfect gift for the City." Charles sat back and smiled. "But, you know, I'm feeling better now."
"Georgiana, will you stop fidgeting!" Darcy's fork clattered onto his plate. "Whatever is the matter?"
She looked at Richard, who shook his head, "Don't look at me, Gorgeous. Just tell him."
"Tell me what? What are the two of you up to?" He turned on Richard.
"Not me, Darce, talk to your sister. I'm outta here!" Richard tossed his napkin on the table next to his plate and stood up.
Darcy looked at Georgie, "Well?" Then he softened his tone, "What's wrong? Problem at school? How can I help?"
"School is fine, Will. Actually, everything is fine."
"Then why are you as nervous as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs?"
"OK, see, I don't want you to worry, but," she took a deep breath, "I have a date for Friday night."
"Who is he? Do I know him?"
"His name is Chris, and I know him from school and the museum." Darcy was silent, so she continued, "He's really nice. You may have seen him at the Halloween party. He was the Headless Horseman."
"I believe I saw you sitting with him when you were doing the storytelling. Well, I'll get to meet him when he picks you up on Friday evening."
"Um, see, that's the thing."
"What?"
"Don't do the Spanish Inquisition thing, OK?"
"Moi?" Darcy raised an eyebrow.
"Will," she whined. "He's really nice. Don't scare him off."
"If I can't do the Spanish Inquisition thing on Friday, I'll do it now. Where are you going?"
"We're going out to dinner, Chinese. And then we're going to a movie. Oh, and it's a double date. Kitty and Sandy are going, too. Safety in numbers, OK?"
Richard poked his head into the room, "So is it all clear, then?" Georgie nodded, and Richard returned to his chair. "Thank God. What's for dessert?"
"Homework for me!" said Georgie as she left the room.
"You OK, Darce?"
"Yeah, I guess. It had to happen eventually."
"You should be happy she feels ready to date."
"I am. But I also worry. If she gets hurt again, I swear..."
"So, when he picks her up, do you want me here in full uniform, complete with sidearm to intimidate him?"
"Mr. Fitzwilliam, you will do no such thing!" cried Mrs. Reynolds as she carried in the coffee tray. "Don't embarrass the child!" She paused, then added, "Either of you!"
Posted on Tuesday, 27 November 2001
November 9
"Thanks so much for your time, Frank. See you later." Lizzy turned and walked of Dr. Weston's office. She smiled at his secretary and turned to walk down the hall when she nearly collided with a tall man in a business suit.
"Oops! Sorry!" She looked up and recognized the face. "Oh, Mr. Darcy. What brings you here?"
"I have business with Dr. Weston. But now that I've run into you-"
"Almost literally," she laughed.
"Yes, well, since you're here, I do have a question. How much do you know about Christopher Carter?"
"I beg your pardon?"
"Carter. He's one of your volunteers. I wanted to learn a little bit about him."
"May I ask why?"
"Yes, he is taking Georgie out tonight, and I uh..."
"Oh, how wonderful! What a delightful couple they'll make!"
Darcy frowned, "That's as may be, but I would like to know something of his character."
"His character? You want a reference for your sister's date?"
He stiffened. "Is there something wrong with that?"
A smart retort about the nineteenth century was on the tip of her tongue when she remembered that Charlotte had told her that Georgie was getting over a bad experience. "A little old-fashioned, perhaps."
"So, what can you tell me?"
"He is a nice young man, med student, good-natured, great sense of humor."
"That's all?"
This is getting ridiculous. Her temper was beginning to get the better of her. "I am sorry, but I do not know his blood type, GPA, grandmother's name, or arrest record."
What impertinence! "Really, Ms Bennet, I would think you'd know something about your volunteers."
"Look, Mr. Darcy," but she was cut off before she could say more.
"Mr. Darcy! Good to see you!" Frank Weston shot Lizzy a warning look. Lizzy gave both men a smile and walked away.
Darcy shook Dr. Weston's outstretched hand. "Good to see you, too." He watched Lizzy's retreating figure and frowned.
"Is something wrong, Mr. Darcy?"
"No. Nothing important."
"Then come in and let's see if I can dig up the information you need."
Lizzy paused. So, he didn't expect to get the information from me, and he's going to my boss? How dare he! Poor Georgie, having to live with such an arrogant man! She stalked back to her office.
The two men entered Dr. Weston's office. Darcy declined coffee and took a seat.
"I'm sorry to ask, but unfortunately, one of the Board members wanted your latest numbers."
Dr. Weston handed over a computer printout and sighed, "I wish they were better, but you know how it is. Visitation is down everywhere."
"I don't think it will be a problem. Her daughter works at the Met, so if I have to, I'll ask her to help explain the situation. If it were up to me, I'd fund the exhibit this minute. But I'm only one member of the Board."
"I appreciate your support in this. If you need me or any of the relevant people to speak to the Board, just let me know and we'll be there."
"I think the proposal is enough. If it isn't, we'll go to plan B." Darcy looked at his watch and picked up the papers. "I really must be going. Thanks for running the numbers for me."
With the phone cradled on her shoulder and a coat hanger in each hand, Georgie stood in front of the mirror.
"I don't know, Kitty, maybe I should wear the black slacks and the tan sweater. A dress might look to, um, dressy."
Georgie, I thought you had settled on the navy skirt and tan sweater. You need to calm down. It's just a date. Wear the skirt and sweater. OK? I have to take a shower now, Georgie. I'll see you in about an hour. Breathe, OK? Bye!"
Georgie heard the door to the apartment shut. Then there was a knock at her bedroom door.
"Come in."
"Hi, Sweetie." Darcy surveyed the room. "Whew! Is there anything left in your closet?"
"I just want to look nice."
"You'll look nice in anything you choose. Don't be nervous. If he had the good taste to ask you out, I'm sure he's a nice young man." He kissed her on the forehead. "Get yourself dressed. It wouldn't do to keep him waiting. Men hate that, especially on a first date. He's probably nervous, too, you know."
Georgie watched as he left the room and pulled the door closed. She tried to imagine Will on a first date. Will, nervous? Somehow, she couldn't picture that. Then, she realized that she couldn't imagine him on a date of any kind. How long has it been since he went out on something other than a business dinner? She pulled her sweatshirt over her head and walked into the bathroom, musing on her brother's love life or lack thereof.
Richard looked at his watch. "Isn't she supposed to be ready by now? He'll probably be here any minute."
Darcy looked up from his drink. "You rush her, then. I'll only make her more nervous."
Richard walked to Georgie's door. "You decent?"
"Come in, Richard."
He looked her over and whistled. "Very nice."
"Really?"
"Yes, really. Don't worry, you'll be fine. Anyway, it's only one date."
"That's funny coming from you. All of your dates are 'only' one date. Do you ever see a woman more than once?"
"Hm, sometimes. But you know how crazy my life is. I don't stay anywhere long enough to have a long-term relationship. I know you won't believe this, but I have a way to get you a second date with this guy, if you want one."
"How?"
"You ask him out."
"I couldn't!"
"Have a party. How about if you invite him and some other friends over to watch Monday night football? You can use my place. The monster TV was delivered today."
"I don't know."
"Think about it. If things go well tonight and you want to do it, just invite them. I admit it won't be the kind of date where the guys will pay a lot of attention to you, but they'll think you're cool to let them watch sports."
"If I do, will you teach me about football?"
Richard was contemplating the enormity of this request when the doorbell rang. Georgie's eyes went wide with fright. Richard hugged her and pulled her out of the room. "Go," he said, propelling her forward.
Posted on Tuesday, 27 November 2001
Still November 9
The waiter handed the foursome menus and left them to make their decisions.
Chris looked at Georgie, who was reading the menu rather intently. "Do you have a particular favorite?"
She shook her head, "No, it's always so hard to choose. There are lots of things I like."
"When my family goes out for Chinese food, we generally order a few things we all like and share. How would that be?" Kitty looked up to see how her companions liked her suggestion. They all nodded.
"Great idea, Kitty," said Sandy. "Let the negotiations begin!"
Amid much banter, they finally settled on some appetizers and three main courses to be shared.
They munched on Chinese noodles and sipped tea. Nobody seemed to have anything to say, so Kitty decided once again to facilitate things.
"So, Chris, did you get to meet Georgie's brother?"
"Wow! I didn't expect the Spanish Inquisition!" he replied.
"Nobody expects the Spanish Inquisition!" cried Sandy. "That's their main weapon, surprise and intimidation. Make that two weapons-"
"Surprise, intimidation, and size. Make that three weapons!" added Kitty.
"Kitty! A closet Python fan! I think I'm in love."
"Geez, Sandy," laughed Kitty as the waiter set their food on the table, "You guys fall in love way too easily. Just the other day, Chris was ready to fall in love with Georgie over the thought of home-baked cookies." She stopped laughing and looked at Chris. "Seriously, was it that bad?"
"Depends on your definition of bad. When he looked me over, I felt as if I was being x-rayed, head to foot. He was polite. I mean, he didn't lecture me or anything. But the message got across just the same-mess with my sister and you're dead meat. His cousin was pleasant, though."
Kitty smirked, "Oh, so you met Cousin Richard, too? Don't be fooled by the smile. He's some kind of commando or CIA guy or something. If Will Darcy wants you dead, he won't do it himself, he'll send Richard."
Seeing Georgie's mortified expression, Chris reached for her hand. "Sorry, Georgie, we didn't mean to make fun of your family. But your brother is pretty intense. He could lighten up a little, you know?"
Georgie groaned, "Tell me about it. He worries about me all the time. He takes being responsible for me very seriously. I think I need to find a girlfriend for him. A distraction would give me a little space. Do you guys know if Lizzy has a boyfriend?"
"Lizzy?" asked Sandy incredulously. "Your brother sounds awfully serious. Wouldn't Lizzy be a bit lively for him? Maybe you should match him up with someone quiet like her sister, um, Jane, is it?"
Kitty nodded, "Yes, her name is Jane, but I heard her talking to Lizzy yesterday, and I think Jane has a boyfriend. Actually, I kinda like the idea of Will and Lizzy. But they didn't seem to hit it off on Halloween. Remember, Georgie?"
"Oh, yeah, it was actually funny. See, I was sitting on the steps above Ocean Life, talking to Lizzy, when my brother came upon us. Remember how Lizzy was dressed like Indiana Jones? Well..." and Georgie went on to tell the boys about her brother's first encounter with Lizzy Bennet.
"I don't know," mused Chris. "Sounds like a helluva challenge to me. Like the Shakespeare play where the couple don't get along and their friends try to make them fall in love?"
"Much Ado About Nothing," said Georgie, "But forget trying to set up eavesdropping scenes. My brother loves Shakespeare and he'd be onto us before you could say in your best stage whisper, 'Are you sure she loves the gentleman?'"
"We'll think of something," said Sandy "Look at us, four brilliant scholars, we can do this. In the meantime, I'm stuffed. How about dessert after the movie?"
While the two men settled the bill, Kitty and Georgie went to the Ladies' Room together. As soon as they were out of sight of their dates, they burst into giggles. Once inside the Ladies' Room, they high-fived each other.
"This is going so well! I can't believe Sandy actually asked me out. And he likes Python and knows Shakespeare. Mmm and a future doctor, too. God, I hope he asks me out again."
"Well, I sort of have a plan for that. Actually it's Richard's plan." Briefly, Georgie described Richard's idea for a football get-together.
"Perfect! Why not suggest it over dessert?"
"Two minutes," said Richard past a mouthful of salmon.
"Two minutes?"
"Yeah, Darce, two minutes since the last time you checked your watch." He waved his fork at Darcy's plate. "Eat. She's fine. If anything goes wrong, Kitty is there to call 911."
Darcy groaned, "Not funny." He paused, then added quickly, "Did Georgie remember her cell phone?"
"I'm sure she did, but she probably has turned it off. Once they get to the movie, she'll have to turn it off anyhow. They're fine. Eat."
"I don't know how you can be so cavalier, Richard. Just think of the fathers and brothers of the millions of women you've dated, sitting at home wondering what you were up to. I've always wondered what you get up to."
"Not nearly as much as you think," answered Richard ruefully. "I know that my love life is a family joke, but I haven't gone out with as many women as you imagine."
"Oh, really? I didn't think I could imagine as many women as you've gone out with."
"That was great!" said Georgie as they walked into the Ice creamery. "I thought everyone in it was good."
"It was good," agreed Sandy. "But what was with that stupid woman behind us?"
"Ohh," said Kitty in a high-pitched voice, "Why didn't you tell me it was in black and white? How dull. I do so love color." The others laughed at her spot-on impersonation.
"I know," added Chris, "Ignorant woman had never heard of film noir."
Kitty stuck her nose in the air and assumed the voice, "I believe that's Drakkar Noir, darling."
They took their sundaes to one of the tables. The conversation consisted mainly of "Mmm," and "Ahh," as they tasted their own and each other's desserts.
Kitty gently nudged Georgie, who looked at her questioningly. Kitty nodded.
"Um," Georgie began. The others looked at her expectantly. "I was wondering if you'd like to come to a sort of, um, football party. See, Richard has the huge TV, and he said it would be OK if a bunch of us watched Monday Night Football some time. He thought maybe you guys might be New York fans, so he suggested the Giants' game."
"Cool!" said Sandy. "I'm in."
"Me, too," added Chris. "That's nice of your cousin. He's really OK with a bunch of college kids invading his place?"
Georgie nodded, "I'm only going to ask a few other people. I was thinking maybe Rob, which would also mean Marianne. Maybe Tom, if he'll ever come out of the library. I don't want it to be huge, I just thought it would be nice to sort of hang out and watch together."
"Look out!" cried Sandy. "I am about to be brilliant! Your brother is sure to be there, right? Then invite Lizzy! Most of the people there will be Museum volunteers, so it wouldn't seem that odd to include her."
Kitty leaned her chin on her hand and batted her eyes at Sandy. "How clever! I think I'm in love!"
Geography and subway stops decreed that Georgie be taken home off first. Kitty and Sandy agreed to wait in the lobby while Chris saw Georgie to her door. As they got into the penthouse elevator, Georgie smiled up at Chris.
"I had a wonderful time, Chris. Thanks so much. And, um, I'm really sorry about Will-"
"It's OK, I was only teasing. Well, mostly teasing. Can we say goodnight in the elevator? I don't want your brother walking out and um..."
She looked up at Chris and smiled, so he leaned down and gently kissed her. They broke the kiss just as the elevator stopped and the doors opened.
"SIT!"
Darcy sat down again and glared at Richard, "Hmph!"
"I know you heard the elevator. Do not embarrass the poor girl by going out there. She knows how to open the door, you know."
The door opened, and Richard smirked at Darcy.
"Thanks again," they heard Georgie say, "And good night. See you Monday!" The elevator doors closed and Georgie entered the apartment.
"You guys didn't have to wait up."
"It isn't that late. Actually, we were just getting caught up, you know family stuff."
"Sure Will. If that's your story, you stick to it." She sat on the arm of his chair and hugged him.
Quietly he asked, "Good time?"
"Mm-hm. Very nice."
"I'm glad."
Georgie kissed her brother, hugged her cousin, and floated into her room, waiting for Kitty's inevitable call to discuss the date.
Posted on Tuesday, 27 November 2001
November 13
Lizzy was on her way to lunch when she saw Charles in the outer office.
"Hey, Charles. How are you? Does Jane know you're here?" Lizzy glanced at the secretary, who nodded, then turned back to Charles. "She's probably in there fussing with her makeup, just-"
"Lizzy!" Jane opened her door and threw Lizzy a disapproving look. Then she smiled at Charles.
Jane and Charles stood there smiling at each other. Lizzy could have turned cartwheels down the hall and they wouldn't have noticed. She coughed discretely.
"Ahm, have a nice lunch."
"Lizzy, wait," said Charles. "Why don't you come with us?"
"Oh, I don't know..."
"Yes, do come with us," added Jane, "Honestly."
"Honestly?"
"Yes, honestly!"
Confused, Charles watched this exchange between the sisters. Lizzy saw his expression and laughed.
"Thank you, Charles, I'd be delighted to have lunch with you. And on the way, I'll explain about the 'honestly' thing."
Lizzy collected her jacket, and they found their way out of the building.
As they entered the restaurant, Lizzy finished her story, "So you see, it was the simplest way for either of us to tell the other whether it was OK to tag along. 'Honestly' meant yes it's OK. 'Really' or 'sure' or 'I don't mind' meant 'make an excuse and let me go without you.' But Jane is so nice that sometimes she says 'honestly' even when she doesn't really, really, really want the extra company."
"Lizzy, that isn't true."
"Yes it is, Jane, and-"
"And it's one of the many nice things about you," finished Charles gallantly.
During lunch, the conversation turned to Thanksgiving. Charles asked if they were going to the parade.
"Maybe just the beginning. We have to get ourselves out to New Jersey. You know, the 'over the river and through the woods' bit."
"To Grandmother's house?" laughed Charles.
"No," replied Jane, "This year is Mom's turn. Gran did last year, and Aunt Maddie will probably do Christmas. Our apartment is too small to do a sit-down dinner for the family, or we'd be somewhere in the holiday rotation, too."
"Sounds complicated."
Lizzy nodded solemnly, "Not even the CIA can crack the Bennet Holiday Code. What about you? How does your family celebrate Thanksgiving."
"It varies. My married sister is in California. My unmarried sister is in the City. We get together for Thanksgiving if she doesn't have a better offer. She doesn't cook, so if she doesn't have an invitation to a friend's house, we go out to a restaurant."
Seeing Lizzy's look of disapproval, he continued, "It isn't bad. Our family has never been all that close, and Caroline is a terrible cook, so Thanksgiving dinner out is a survival strategy. One year, she invited a bunch of people and had dinner catered, but pretended to have cooked it herself. I don't think the guests were fooled, but it was a delicious meal."
Jane, who had already heard a little about Charles' sister, laughed. Lizzy shook her head in amazement.
"I can't imagine having it catered."
"Of course you can't, Lizzy. Not as long as Gran and Mom and I are around!"
"OK, so I'm a failure as a cook. So shoot me."
"That bad?" asked Charles.
Jane nodded, "Lizzy is going to have to marry a man who can cook or a man with enough money to hire a cook!"
"Jane can cook anything. I figure when I find my rich husband, we'll hire Jane to cook for us! Charles, if you don't have to spend Thanksgiving with your sister, how would like to sample the Bennet family gourmet fare?"
"I couldn't impose."
"Nonsense, as long as Mom gets enough warning to set the table properly, it's no problem. Honestly."
"Honestly?"
"Honestly!" said Jane and Lizzy in perfect unison.
November 15
"Good morning, all!"
"Hi Richard!" Georgie lifted her face for a kiss.
From behind the Business section of the New York Times, Darcy commented, "I don't know why you opened the Fitzwilliam apartment, Richard. You're always here."
"I can't help it. Mrs. R makes better coffee than I do. Not to mention the waffles." He eyed the plates the housekeeper set in front of Darcy and Georgie.
"Your waffles are coming right up, Mr. Fitzwilliam."
"You're a treasure, Mrs. R!"
After he finished his breakfast, Richard looked at his cousins and smiled. It was good to be together like this. Several months in the same city with his cousins would be a treat.
Darcy looked at Richard. He could be a pain at times, but Darcy knew he could count on Richard for a favor.
"Richard," he began, "Are you around next week?"
"I have to work, but I'll be in the city. Why?"
"I have to go to Cleveland for a few days, and I want you to keep an eye on Georgie for me."
"When do you leave?"
"First thing on Monday."
"Oh." She looked crestfallen.Noooo! The football party! And I've already asked Lizzy!
"I'm sorry, Sweetie. Are you worried about Thanksgiving? I'll be home, I promise."
"Oh."
"Speaking of Turkey Day," said Richard, "Has Mother invited you to Greenwich for Thanksgiving?"
"Yes," answered Darcy, "But, unfortunately, we have been ordered to Park Avenue instead."
"Can't you get out of it?"
"No, it's a duty thing. She cornered me at a Foundation Board meeting and I didn't have a ready excuse, so..." he shrugged.
"Bummer."
Georgie laughed, "I know. But it's family, and that's good. I'm just looking forward to a New York Thanksgiving. And then it will be the Christmas season. Mmm, the shopping possibilities!"
Richard grinned, "Look out, Darce! I smell plastic melting!"
"Ooh! You know what?" asked Georgie.
Warily, Darcy looked at her and asked, "What?"
"We could get together, the four New York cousins, and do something together during the holidays. We're the new generation of the family, you know."
"Don't forget Mark," said Darcy, referring to Richard's brother.
"Doesn't count, he's married, and he isn't in the city. I mean the four of us-the two of you, me, and Anne."
Georgie was looking at her brother, so both of them missed the look Richard gave her.
"Sweetie," began Darcy, "Do you truly wish to sit thought a meal or whatever listening to Anne and Richard bicker?"
"They do it in fun, you know that."
"Yes, but it can get out of hand at times."
"She'll behave if I ask her. As a favor to me. At least think about it, OK?"
Posted on Tuesday, 27 November 2001
November 19
Security buzzed the apartment. "Your guests are here, Mr. Fitzwilliam."
"Send 'em up."
A minute later, the elevator opened, and Georgie's friends spilled out, laughing and talking all at once.
Georgie made quick introductions, "Rich, you know Kitty, Sandy and Chris. This is Rob Denny, Marianne Dash, and Tom Jensen."
Tom held up a large bag, "We brought some beer. I hope that's OK. We're all over 21, well, except for the kid over there."
Kitty stuck out her tongue, "I'll be 21 in a few months, so let it go! Besides I don't drink beer. Soda's fine for me."
Richard smiled, "I have some beer on hand, but more is always welcome. I do not object to the beer, but no barfing. I'm trying a new cleaning lady tomorrow, and I don't want her grossed out on her first visit. Understood?" he barked, in his best commanding officer voice.
"Sir, yes sir!" answered Tom and Rob.
Soon the guests were settled in front of the TV. Richard sat on a chair behind the sofa, where he could see the kids and the game.
"Sir, here, please take my seat. I mean, this is your sofa," offered Tom.
"I'm fine, don't worry about it. And please don't call me 'Sir,' makes me feel too old."
"Great punt!" yelled Sandy.
"Look at that tackle! Woohoo!" cried Marianne, who was a former cheerleader, and familiar with the game.
The doorbell rang. "I'll get it!" called Georgie. She returned with Lizzy, who greeted the people she already knew, then was introduced to Rob and Tom. Richard offered Lizzy a seat by him.
"We old folks should stick together, ya know?"
The game continued, and so did the group's commentary.
"WHAT?"
"Ineligible player downfield. Oh, man. Sure, now the kick is shorter."
"Yes! Good tackle!"
Chris looked at Georgie, who seemed a bit confused. When Rob got up to get another beer, Chris stole his seat in Richard's oversized recliner. "Come here, Georgie." He held out his hand and pulled her into the seat next to him.
She looked up at him apprehensively.
"Relax, Big Brother isn't here, you know." He smiled, then lowered his voice to a whisper, "You don't get a lot of what's going on in the game, do you?"
She blushed and shook her head. He gave her a little hug and said, "It's OK, ask me questions, I can talk and watch the game at the same time. Nobody has to know you're not an expert. If we whisper, the others will just assume we're making out."
They all watched comfortably for a while until the Vikings made a big play.
Randy Moss danced into the end zone. Chris groaned. "Look at that! Where was the coverage? Man, I HATE it when they dance into the end zone like that."
Sandy laughed, "Check it out! They threw the flag! Ha! Fifteen yards on the kick. That'll show 'em."
"Hypocrite! You got up and danced when the Giants scored."
"Fans can dance. Players are supposed to play, not dance."
Some time later, the Giants attempted a field goal, but the ball bounced off the upright.
"Noooo! So close!" groaned Tom.
A Viking picked up the ball and started to run. "What? Can he do that?" whispered Georgie.
"No," answered Chris. "The ball is dead. See, the official just said so."
"Dead?"
"Not in play any more."
"Oh."
He kissed the top of her head, "Don't worry Honey, you'll get it. Give it time." Georgie sighed and snuggled next to him.
During the half-time show, a Mick Jagger music video was shown, and Rob and Marianne got up and danced to the music. There was a knock at the door.
Chris wagged a finger at them. "Uh-oh guys, busted for too much noise."
But it wasn't an irate neighbor. It was a tall, pale blonde. She was dressed in black from head to foot. "Morticia" whispered Sandy, and Chris cracked up. Georgie ran to the door to greet the newcomer.
"Guys, this is my cousin Anne."
Everyone waved hello, then looked at Richard, who shook his head, "Not my sister. Another branch of the family." He gave Anne a playful punch in the arm as he walked by. "Beer, Annie, M'love?"
She made a face at him, but laughed, "Yuck! Richie, you know I hate beer." She turned to Georgie, "I brought you some books. I don't want to keep you from your friends. My God, is that football you're watching?"
Georgie took the proffered tote bag and led her cousin across the hall. "Yes it is. My new boyfriend is teaching me about it. Boyfriend. Wow, it feels good to say that." She took out the books and handed Anne her tote bag. "These look great, I appreciate this."
"No problem. I do wish you didn't have Dr. Elton for Art History. She's a drag. A word of warning-her taste is awful. But you better agree with her. If Augusta Elton raves about something, like it. I know it isn't like me to discourage you from developing your own taste..."
Georgie looked Anne up and down, "Ya think?"
"Don't push it, Georgie, or I'll take the books back." The tone was menacing, but the grin showed she was teasing. "Seriously, like what you like, but say you like what she likes.
Georgie said goodnight to Anne and returned to find the second half of the game had already started. They group was teasing Chris about the football player with the same name.
"Hey Chris, Where's your namesake when we need him?"
"He got one TD, gimme a break."
Some time later, a collective groan rose from the group. "Not again! Moss is killin' us here!"
"Six minutes to go and we're down 12 points. It's midnight, time to give it up."
"Yeah, Chris, or you'll nod off in lab and fall face down into a cadaver," teased Sandy.
Eeuuw gross!" cried Marianne. "How can you do that? Cut someone up, I mean."
"Hey, I have to know what's in there. You want to have appendicitis and your surgeon says, 'Hmm, I've seen a diagram somewhere...'?"
The argument was interrupted. "First and goal. C'mon guys!"
"Pass interference? Gimme a break. That was such a little push off. What about the defender who was all over him?"
"Interception? Aw, no!" Players were milling around and shoving each other. "Geez, look at these guys. Yo, fellas, this is NOT a hockey game!"
Even as they stood up to leave and get their coats, they kept watching.
"Interception! That finishes it!"
Georgie whispered to Chris, "But there's still time left."
"Doesn't matter. Vikings will just take a knee." He saw her confused expression and gave her a hug. "Next time we watch football, let's do it without an audience, and I'll be able to explain more." He gave her a quick kiss and left with the crowd.
Georgie turned to discover that Richard and Lizzy were deep in conversation. Nooo! She was supposed to be here for Will.
Lizzy stood up and smiled at Rich. "At least we old folk managed to stay awake at this late hour."
He laughed, "I do it by pretending I'm in a different time zone where it isn't so late."
Lizzy stared at him, "Somehow, I don't think that would work for me. Here, let me help you clean up."
"Not necessary. I told the others before you got here, new cleaning lady tomorrow. Let her start with a challenge."
"If you're sure? Well, then goodnight, Richard. Nice to meet you. Goodnight, Georgie."
Richard and Georgie watched Lizzy enter the elevator.
"Very nice," said Richard.
"We have to talk about that," answered Georgie.
Posted on Monday, 3 December 2001
November 20
"Good Morning, Mrs. R. Is she up yet?" Richard strolled into the kitchen and helped himself to coffee.
"I think I heard some sounds in her room. How late did the festivities last?"
"Around midnight. But her highness informed me that she wished to speak to me this morning, so here I am."
"Hey, Richard." The soft voice trailed off into a yawn. "Thanks for coming over."
Instead of going into the dining room, they sat in the kitchen, enjoying the aroma of the cinnamon buns Mrs. Reynold had just removed from the oven.
"So what's up? I gather there is some sort of problem with the delectable Lizzy Bennet?"
"Yes, it's about Lizzy. I don't want you to start up with her, delectable or not."
"Protecting your friend from the big bad bachelor?"
"Yes and no. I mean, yes, I don't want Lizzy to be another of your discards. But there's more than that."
"And what would that be?"
"Will."
"I'm missing something here. What does Will have to do with Lizzy Bennet?"
"Nothing yet, but-"
Richard groaned. "No. No. No. No matchmaking."
"But, Richard, he's always working or worrying over me. He's never going to have a girlfriend if we don't find him one."
"And does Lizzy get a say in this?"
Georgie stared into her coffee.
"Georgie, there are several reasons why this isn't a good idea. First, your brother's love life is his own business. And so is mine, for that matter-my business, I mean." He sighed. "Second, even if I did want to help you play matchmaker, I don't think Lizzy is a prime candidate."
"Why not? She's pretty and smart and lively. She'd make him laugh, Richard. He needs that."
"You're overlooking an important bit of data."
"And that would be?
"She doesn't exactly like Darce."
"I know that they didn't get off to a great start when they met at the Halloween party, but last night was supposed to fix that. I figured they could get to know each other a bit at the game. But then Will had to go out of town." She frowned. "So how much doesn't she exactly like him?"
"We talked about him a bit last night and, um, how shall I put it? She thinks he acts like he has a broomstick up his-well, she thinks he's stuffy. Also overprotective of you to the point of paranoia."
"That last one doesn't count. She doesn't know about, you know, um, me, so that's a reasonable impression on her part, even if it isn't truly accurate."
"Georgie, it won't work, and you'll be disappointed when it doesn't."
"I'm not asking you to help. Just don't get in the way."
"Your brother is not going to thank you for this. If he had an interest in her, he'd do something about it. When I saw them together after the Marathon, he didn't seem particularly interested."
"All I want to do is give them an opportunity to discover each other."
He reached for another cinnamon bun and sighed, "All right. I will not make a move on your Lizzy. But I will not be a party to any manipulations of either her or your brother. Got that?"
Georgie got up and hugged Richard. "Thanks. That's all I need. I already have help lined up for the manipulations. I have to go." She smiled at the housekeeper, "Great breakfast! See you tonight."
Mrs. Reynolds refilled Richard's coffee and poured a cup for herself. She sat down in the chair Georgie had just vacated. Richard smiled at her and shook his head.
"So, what do you make of all this, Mrs. R?"
"I don't know. You're right, Mr. Darcy won't be pleased at her meddling. But I do wish he'd find someone. Georgiana is a senior this year. If she goes away for law school, he'll be lonely."
"I know."
"So tell me about this Lizzy. I gather that she has quite a lot to do with Georgiana's improved outlook. Georgiana is always singing her praises."
"Georgie is right, Lizzy is pretty. And based on our conversations last night, I'd say she's smart. She understands football, always a plus."
"For you, perhaps. But familiarity with football is probably not a high priority with Mr. Darcy."
"Sorry, Shakespeare, Bach, and John LeCarre novels didn't come up last night."
"So we don't know much about her, then."
"Just one other thing. She seems to annoy, no that's not the word. Um, unsettle, that's it. She unsettles him. And you know, now that I think about it, that might not be altogether bad."
"Then you are going to help?"
"No, but I'll enjoy watching."
"Sandy!" Kitty bounced across the cafeteria. Georgie followed at a slower pace.
"Hello, ladies! Have you had lunch?"
"No, just going to get something now. Can you hang around a bit and save seats for us?"
"Sure. Do me a favor and get me another Coke?"
"Uh huh. Where's Chris?"
"Stuck in the lab."
When all three were seated, Sandy thanked Georgie for the football party.
"That TV setup is awesome. Please thank your cousin again for me. He seems pretty cool. Not scary like Big Brother."
"To be fair, Will has had to take responsibility for a lot, including me. Richard has always been free to be the buddy. But don't let the laid-back appearance fool you. Richard can be serious when he has to."
"Is he really with the CIA? Isn't that what you said, Kitty?"
Kitty nodded. "That's what I said, but I don't really know for sure. What does he do, Georgie?"
"I don't really know. He travels to undisclosed places on unexpected schedules. He has told me a bunch of stuff-secret missions for the army, FBI, CIA; on the run from the Mafia; on the run from a jealous husband. I used to imagine that he was a spy, like James Bond. Sometimes I wonder if he's an international jewel thief.
"Seriously, it's some kind of government thing. My brother knows more about it. I think they make all those jokes so that I won't worry. He's based in New York for the next few months. I wonder if it has anything to do with September 11. Maybe he's investigating something."
"Wow! International man of mystery," said Sandy.
"Or just a guy on the run from a jealous husband. But I doubt that. Georgie, didn't you say that he never goes out with the same woman twice?"
"Yeah, which is why I warned him away from Lizzy this morning. He doesn't think we can make this thing with Will and Lizzy work. Well, after Thanksgiving, we'll have to give it another try."
"Speaking of Thanksgiving," said Kitty. "What are you guys doing?"
"Dinner with my Aunt," groaned Georgie.
"I'm going upstate with Chris. I didn't want the hassle of flying home to Iowa for just the few days. I'll go home for Christmas, though. What about you, Kitty?"
"Dinner at home. Our family are all in the city, so it's easy to arrange. Do you guys want to go to the inflation?"
"What's that?" asked Sandy.
"The balloon inflation." replied Kitty. "Wednesday night, they blow up the balloons for the parade. It's on the side streets near the Museum."
"I remember going to that the year before we moved to Boston. Will and Daddy took me. You'll love it, Sandy. Tell Chris we'll meet on the front steps at 9." Georgie checked her watch. "Ugh. Art History beckons. See you tomorrow night!"
Georgiana blew on her wet nails while she studied her history notes. Her textbook was open on the bed beside her.
"Knock, knock."
"Will! Come in!"
He crossed the room and gave her a quick kiss, careful to stay out of range of the wet nail polish.
"How's school?"
"Good. How was the trip?"
"Productive. I brought you a present." He held out a T-shirt from the Rock'n'Roll Hall of Fame."
"Ooh! Thank you! It's wonderful. You're a good brother, you know that."
He narrowed his eyes. "You want something."
"No, I'm just telling the truth."
"So was your football party a success?"
"Yes, it was great." Apart from you not being there to see Lizzy. "And Chris explained some of the plays for me."
I'll just bet he did. "That's nice, Sweetie. You like this fellow, don't you?"
"Yes, Will, I do. And I think he likes me, too. I know what you're thinking, but I'll be careful. I don't think he's the kind of guy who'll push me to do something I'm not comfortable with. We're going to the inflation tomorrow night."
"You and Chris?"
"And Kitty and Sandy, too. We're becoming quite a foursome. It's nice just hanging out together. It isn't like we're always paired off. More like four friends having fun together. I had hoped you'd get to meet some of my friends at the football thing."
"I know. Would I be too much of an intrusion if I went to the inflation with you? I won't stay too long and bother you, just spend a little time with your friends. No Spanish Inquisition, I promise."
She giggled, remembering Kitty and Sandy's rendition of the famous Monty Python skit.
"What?"
"Nobody expects the Spanish Inquisition!" she answered with a smile. But I expect Lizzy will be there.
Posted on Monday, 3 December 2001
November 21
"Ooh, yum! Lots of salt! Thanks, Will." Georgie took the pretzel Darcy had bought from a vendor.
"It'll make you thirsty."
"Then I'll get something to drink. Are those chestnuts?"
He nodded. "Dad always used to buy them. I guess tonight is making me a bit nostalgic."
She slipped her arm through his and leaned against him. "Me, too."
They ate their snacks in silence, watching the crowd milling around the area. Georgie spotted her friends walking down Central Park West. She waved and bounded down the steps, with Will following more sedately behind her.
Chris swept Georgie up in a bear hug and swung her around. When he caught sight of Will, he set her down and tried not to look embarrassed.
"Hello, Mr. Darcy."
"Hello, Chris. I'm Georgie's brother, not her father. I think it would be all right if you called me Will." He turned to greet Kitty and saw that she was with someone he hadn't met.
"Hi Will, this is Sandy," said Kitty. "This is his first time at the inflation. He's from Iowa." This last item was added in a whisper as if it was something not to be said in polite company.
"Hello, Sandy, nice to meet you. Shall we take a look around and see what's been blown up so far?"
They worked their way through the crowd, checking out the balloons.
Chris nudged Georgie and pointed to a large brown balloon that was slowly taking shape.
"Your namesake!"
"What?"
"Curious George!" Their laughter was interrupted by a gasp from Sandy.
"What's wrong?"
"His hand, he's holding up a finger," he said in astonishment.
Kitty elbowed him in the ribs, "It's his index finger, you idiot!"
Laughing, they continued on to the next balloon. While Will talked with Sandy and Kitty, Chris and Georgie discussed school.
"So the books are helpful, then?"
"Yes."
"It was nice of Morticia to lend them to you."
"That isn't her name."
"I don't care, she's Morticia to me!"
Will looked back at his sister, with a confused look on his face. A mortician? Why is Georgie borrowing books from a mortician?
"He means Anne, Will. She showed up Monday night to drop off some art books, and they guys think she looks like Morticia!"
Afraid that he had offended Darcy, Chris couldn't apologize quickly enough.
"No, no, don't apologize. Anne is still rebelling against her frou-frou debutante days. She says she's only wearing black until someone invents a darker color. You know, except for the fact that Anne is blonde, 'Morticia' is a good fit," laughed Darcy. "Although I wish I hadn't heard you say it. All through dinner tomorrow, I'll be thinking da-da-da-da-snap-snap," and snapped his fingers twice to the tune of "The Addams Family."
Georgie gazed at her brother in amazement. There was only one way this evening could get better. And then it did.
Chris nudged Georgie and pointed. She nodded. He gave her a subtle thumbs-up and waved.
"Lizzy! Hey, Lizzy!"
Lizzy turned around and saw four of her favorite volunteers. Standing near them, with his back to her was a tall man wearing jeans and a suede jacket. As Lizzy approached the group, she couldn't help noticing the man's long legs and the perfect fit of the jeans. Then she saw Georgie pull on the sleeve of his jacket.
Will turned around to see what his sister wanted. A woman was walking toward them. Because she was backlighted, he couldn't see who she was. But he admired the long, yet feminine stride. As she got closer, he recognized the leather jacket.
"Hi, guys! I didn't expect to run into you. Isn't this a great night? It's usually so cold, and-" she stopped when she saw Darcy. "Hello, Mr. Darcy."
"Indiana Jones! I see you left your whip home."
"Too many people here. You really can't use it to good effect in a crowd."
"So you only use it in more-" he was going to say "in more intimate settings," but realized that it could be taken as an entirely inappropriate remark. She raised her eyebrows, as if to encourage him to continue, but he quietly said, "Um, never mind."
Lizzy looked at him in amazement. Was he blushing? The realization that he might have been on the verge of making an innuendo made her blush in turn.
The four onlookers held their breath, wondering where the conversation was going. Lizzy recovered and changed the subject.
"So, have you been all the way around yet?"
"Not quite," answered Georgie. "Are you here on something official, or can you walk with us?"
"Actually, I'm here with Jane and her new boyfriend. There they are." She waved and Jane and Charles joined the group.
After introductions were made all around, Darcy looked at Charles and said, "Have we met? You look familiar-wait a minute, you're the Charles Bingley who writes for the Times! Your column is the first thing I look for in the Sports section!"
Georgie's heart sank. Once men started talking sports, they were lost for the rest of the night. She was about to ask Jane to retrieve Charles when Darcy's cell phone rang.
"Hello? What? Everything was fine when I left yesterday. All right, all right, I'll look it up. Does he have to know now? No, I'm not at home, I'm-you don't want to know. I'll call you back." Will put his phone back in his pocket. He looked at the group and shrugged.
"Lawyers! Can't leave 'em to finish a deal on their own. Honestly, Georgie, why can't you choose an honorable profession, like robbing trains?!? I'm sorry, I have to go. Good night everyone!" And with a wave he disappeared into the crowd.
"Bummer!" whispered Chris in Georgie's ear.
The group stood and chatted for a while. Chris was standing behind Georgie with his arms around her and his chin resting on her head. She reached out to point to something and there was a sudden flash of light.
"Hi! I'm a photographer from the Times, hey, Charles, how are ya? and I need your names in case we use the picture in the feature about the parade. Can I get a picture of the four of you? Where do you go to school?"
Charles laughed and told Jane and Lizzy, "That's Flanagan. The man is a great photographer and an even greater bull - well, anyway, he can talk anyone into signing a photo release."
After Flanagan finished taking their pictures, he went on to pounce on some other spectators. Charles announced that he was tired of standing, and asked the locals to suggest a nearby place of refreshment.
The group settled into a large booth in a comfortable bar. The waiter carded everyone, just to be safe, and poor Kitty had to take the inevitable teasing about being the only one under age. Kitty ordered a Coke, everyone else ordered various beers, and when it was Georgie's turn to order, she hesitated, then ordered a Coke.
"I don't know much about beer, and there were so many kinds!" she said softly. Chris squeezed her hand and smiled.
"It's OK. Have what you want. You can taste some of mine if you're curious. I'm not going to make you drink something you don't want." She smiled up at him, and he continued. "Frankly, I'm relieved. Big Brother was relaxed tonight. I'd hate to spoil it by having you go home with alcohol on your breath."
The drinks were served, and Georgie had a sip of several kinds of beer. The stout was too rich, but she liked Lizzy's red ale at first. But then she was surprised.
"Ooh! It has a kind of bitter aftertaste."
"No," said Lizzy, "It has a strong finish. That's how you say 'aftertaste' in beer lingo. Beer is supposed to be bitter. All this 'less bitter' stuff with the lite beers is silly. If you want beer, drink beer that tastes like beer!"
Charles raised his glass of stout, "Amen to that. And let's drink a toast to Thanksgiving!"
"Thanksgiving!" Glasses were clinked and drinks were sipped.
"Turkey!"
"Stuffing!"
"Cranberry sauce!"
By the time they had toasted every traditional Thanksgiving dish, their glasses were empty and it was time to go home.
Posted on Monday, 3 December 2001
November 22
Georgie entered the dining room and poured herself a cup of coffee.
"You look tired, Will."
"I know. And I wasn't the one out partying last night. I think there's something unfair about that. I'm sorry I was still on the phone when you got in last night. Tell me what happened after I left."
"We looked at the rest of the balloons, and then we went for a beer." She stopped when she saw his eyebrows go up.
"Who is 'we?' and where did you go?"
"'We' was everyone that you saw there, including Lizzy and Jane and Charles. It was just a small bar near the Museum. No big deal. And no, I didn't have a beer. And Chris was nice about it."
"What do you mean?"
"Well, I hear some of the other kids at school talk about parties and drinking, and it sounds like nobody wants to know you at a party if you don't drink. Last night I ordered a Coke because I had no idea what kind of beer to order. I felt stupid-I didn't even know there were so many kinds! I started to explain to Chris, and he said it was OK to order whatever I wanted."
Darcy nodded in approval.
Georgie continued, "And everyone was nice, letting me taste what they had ordered. Lizzy didn't make fun of me when I said her beer had an aftertaste."
"Finish."
"What?"
"The aftertaste of beer is called its finish. She probably was drinking an ale. Ales contain more hops, which produces the characteristic finish."
"Wow. I didn't know you were a beer aficionado. You generally have wine with dinner, or brandy after. I haven't seen you drink a lot of beer."
"No, I don't often drink beer at home, it's better on tap. But I know about it from the tastings I went to go to with some of the people from the Boston office. But to get back to last night, I'm pleased that nobody pressured you to drink."
"Chris has been so sweet about everything. Monday night, he explained some of the football stuff to me, but he did it quietly so that the others wouldn't know how ignorant I am about football. He could have shown off or patronized me, but he didn't."
"He seems like a nice young man. I'm glad that you're making new friends. I should try to get to know them better. It's too bad that I had to leave last night."
"Yes, it was." Georgie thought about the night before. She wasn't sure she could imagine her brother raising a glass of beer to toast turkeys, stuffing, and cranberries. She smiled, and Darcy gave her a quizzical look.
"We made toasts. To Thanksgiving, to turkeys, to pumpkin pie, to whipped cream, the works."
"I'm sorry I missed it." Darcy held up his coffee cup and clinked it gently against Georgie's, "Happy Thanksgiving."
Georgie put down her cup and smiled, "I'm thankful for you, Will. I don't know what I'd have done without you."
"I'm thankful for you, too, Sweetie."
"Will, did you mean it about getting to know my friends?"
"Yes. I don't mean tagging along as some elderly chaperone. But when an opportunity arises for me to join your group, I would like it."
"I have an idea." She paused and bit her lip apprehensively. "Could we have a party? It could be a combination house warming-Christmas party."
"A party? The decorator suggested a house warming party. I figured she was expecting me to show off the place to my friends and tell them all to hire her, so I didn't give it much thought. You'd really like to do this?" She nodded.
"Let's talk about it tonight, all right?"
Georgie smiled and added, "We'll have to talk to Mrs. R, too. I don't want to overwork her after all she has done for us. And you know she'll want to do it all herself."
"How about we let her help choose a caterer?"
"Good idea!"
"It's just good business strategy. We put her in charge of the caterer, and then she feels important and in control, rather than seeing it as a suggestion that we find her less than capable of doing the party herself."
Georgie jumped up from her chair and threw her arms around her brother. "You're brilliant and kind and generous! I wish we could start planning right now!"
"Sorry, Sweetie, but duty calls. We had better go change for dinner at Aunt Catherine's."
Lewis and Catherine deBourgh lived on the Upper East Side in a townhouse that was elegantly decorated, just this side of ostentatious. Because of the proximity of the townhouse to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where she worked, Anne lived at home.
When Lewis deBourgh met Catherine Fitzwilliam Wilson, she was a young divorcee and he was a widower with an eight-year-old tomboy daughter. Lewis was busy with his growing construction empire, and had been content to let his daughter wear jeans and play in the dirt. But he worried that she needed a mother figure. Then he met Catherine, a socialite, recently dumped by an ungrateful husband when they found out that she couldn't have children.
Although Lewis and Catherine did love one another, their marriage also had several practical aspects. He had money, but knew nothing of high society. She had social connections as well as money, and was delighted to help file off some of his rough edges-and Anne's. Lewis found a woman who could make a lady out of his tomboy. Catherine found a little girl to mother.
Catherine saw early on that life with Anne would not be easy. Each was determined to have her own way. Anne never resented Catherine for taking her mother's place. Her mother had died when Anne was quite young, so the memories were not very strong. What Anne resented was Catherine's desire to refine the little girl.
Catherine quickly learned to negotiate with Anne. The child accepted piano lessons, art lessons, dancing lessons and all the other forms of training for a young girl expected to make her way in society. Catherine accepted that Anne would sometimes be allowed to travel with her father and wander around construction sites in jeans, boots and her little "deBourgh Construction" hard hat. Anne agreed to the posh private girls' academy in return for being allowed to revert to her tomboy life and chase after her male cousins during summers at the Fitzwilliam family compound in the Hamptons.
Despite wrinkling her nose in disgust at "girlie stuff," Anne did appreciate one of Catherine's programs. And that was the art lessons. Anne developed a true passion for art and was always willing to go on museum visits. Catherine, who had feared that Anne would want to become an engineer and work with her father, was relieved when Anne announced that she would major in art in college.
When Catherine decided that Anne should make her formal debut into society, Anne turned to her father for support in rejecting the plan. But he agreed with Catherine, and the two women entered yet another round of lifestyle negotiations. Anne became a debutante in return for a promise of spring break on a dude ranch in Wyoming.
In yet another carefully negotiated treaty, Anne agreed to stay at home after college if she could decorate her own bedroom. In contrast to the opulent furnishings her parents lived with, Anne chose a stark, minimalist décor. Not surprisingly, the room was decorated in black and white, with the occasional touch of color, which Anne would change depending on her mood. In the adjacent studio, which was off limits to everyone, stood her easel and paints, and the many sketches and softly pastel watercolors that were the product of her secret, softer side.
Anne greeted Darcy and Georgie. Wearing black, as usual, she led them into the living room. As they followed her, Darcy remembered the nickname Georgie's friends had for Anne, and had to cough to cover a laugh.
"William!" cried an imperious voice. "Do you have a cold? You need to take better care of yourself, young man."
"Hello, Aunt Catherine." Darcy bent to kiss his aunt, then turned and shook his uncle's hand. "Happy Thanksgiving, Uncle Lewis."
"Champagne fixes coughs," said Uncle Lewis, handing around flutes of the bubbling wine. He kissed Georgie and handed her a glass.
Uncle Lewis raised his glass and offered a toast, "To Thanksgiving with family."
"And pumpkin pie," whispered Darcy in Georgie's ear.
"What was that, William? You know that it is very rude to whisper in company!" Without giving him time to answer, Aunt Catherine continued, "Have you seen today's paper?"
"No, I haven't."
"Look at this. Young lady, whatever were you doing in that rabble last night?"
Uncle Lewis took the newspaper from his wife's outstretched hand. "Handsome couple, I'd say." And he handed the paper to Darcy.
It was the photograph that had been taken the night before of Chris standing behind Georgie, arms wrapped around her. Darcy looked at the expression of utter content on Georgie's face. His stomach gave an unfamiliar lurch when he realized the implications. She's growing up. I'm not the most important man in her life any more.
Georgie studied her brother's face as he looked at the picture. He was frowning slightly. She wasn't sure what to make of it when he said, "I wonder if I could get the original of this."
She gasped, "You're not going to sue them or anything are you?"
"No, Sweetie. I just think it's a good photograph of you and I'd like to have it-the real one, not one cut out from the paper."
Anne was the next to see the picture. She looked at it wistfully. "He's handsome, Georgie. And he's holding you so protectively. It's sweet." She sighed. I wish someone would hold me like that.
Dinner was announced, and they sat down to a protracted multicourse dinner. After they finished their pumpkin soufflé, the men left the table, not to watch football, but to discuss business in the study. Lewis deBourgh owned a highly successful construction company, with projects going up all over the city and in the Tri-state area.
The three women remained at the table a while longer. Georgie felt uncomfortable under her aunt's gaze. The woman was thinking of something, and Georgie suspected that it would not be to her liking. Anne, too, could sense a lecture coming, and tried to think of a conversation starter. But she wasn't quick enough.
"You know, Georgiana, you are not too old to make your debut. I'm sure your dear mother would have loved to see you presented to society properly."
A look of intense fear crossed Georgie's features as her aunt continued. "It is a very good way to meet the proper sort of young men, you know. Much better than picking them up at some street party."
"Mother! Georgie knows Chris from school. I met him briefly the other night, and he seems like a nice guy,"
"What? Were you at that street thing?"
"No, I met him at Richard's apartment on Monday when I took some books to Georgie."
"Richard's apartment? Richard is in town? He hasn't called me." She turned on Georgie, "What is that good-for-nothing nephew of mine doing here? How long will he be in town?"
"I'm not sure, Aunt Catherine, but I think he'll be here for a few months."
The conversation was interrupted by the maid, informing Mrs. deBourgh that she had a telephone call. Anne and Georgie moved into the living room and settled onto one of the sofas.
"Thanks for bringing up Richard. It saved me from having to say no to the debut thing."
Anne smiled wickedly, "He's gonna get an earful from Mother. Serves him right. He should have called us. And don't worry about the debut. She won't make you go through with it. Of course, if you want to do it, I'm sure she has my gowns put away somewhere. There's a particularly hideous lavender number, as I recall. And I can teach you to curtsey. I had lessons, don't laugh."
"You really hated it, didn't you."
"You cannot imagine how much. But we'll all protect you, never fear. Your brother took me to too many of those damn balls to want to go through it again. He was a good sport to do that for me.
"Why Will? Why not Mark or Richard?"
"Mark was too old to be bothered, and Richard had trouble getting out of school for it. He did take me to one or two, but he went home with so many phone numbers, it was humiliating. At least your brother tried to deflect the admirers."
Georgie giggled, "I'm sorry, Anne, I know it isn't funny. But Richard is an incurable flirt."
"You don't have to tell me that! When I was 14, I was desperately in love with Richard, but he only saw me as his annoying little cousin. Unrequited love stinks, my dear, especially at such a tender age."
"Why Richard and not Will?"
"My perverse nature, I guess. You were too little to remember when we all summered together in the Hamptons. I used to tag along after the boys. Will was always kind to me. Richard wouldn't give me the time of day. Trust me to take the difficult path. Will and I have always been friends. Richard and I just irritate each other."
"Well, do you think you and Richard could bury the hatchet long enough for the four of us to do something together? I'd like the New York cousins to have a holiday event together."
"OK, but not the Radio City Christmas Show or the Nutcracker. Too obvious a choice. And no sporting events, either."
"Then what about a play? Think about it?"
"I'll look at the theater listings later and give you some suggestions. You're right, it would be a nice tradition to start, now that you're back in New York."
Posted on Monday, 3 December 2001
November 23
"Just coffee for me, Jane. I swear, I am never going to eat again!"
"Oh, Lizzy, you say that every year. Next comes the vow of a pre-Christmas diet and a faithful relationship with the treadmill."
"Am I that predictable?
"I'm afraid so."
"Be nice, or I'll tell Mom that I was lying about Charles."
"What did you tell Mom about Charles?"
"Nothing, really, that's the point. For example, last night when I called to say we'd arrived home safely, I didn't tell her that Charles had dropped me off and that the two of you had gone out. I said you were in the shower and then I asked to speak to Dad."
"What did you and Dad talk about?"
"For one thing, we talked about Charles. Dad likes him, and he was amused by the way Charles tried to hide his relief when the men disappeared into football land in the den. Mom likes Charles, too. I gather that, after we left, she gave vent to her excitement."
"She was fairly restrained today, wasn't she? But did I really see Aunt Maddie kick Mom under the table a couple of times?"
"I didn't think you noticed, since you were seated across from Charles." Lizzy batted her eyelashes at Jane.
"Lizzy!"
"Oh, Janie, Janie, Janie. You have no idea how cute the two of you are. You're so oblivious. Or is it obvious? No, you're obvious and oblivious."
"I don't know, Lizzy. I like Charles a lot, but I haven't known him for long. And I don't know how he feels about me. He does seem sweet, though."
I know. On the way home, he even said that Lydia is a cute kid. He has a way with words, that's for sure. And he is good-natured, which makes him a good match for you. You have my permission to like him, Jane."
November 28
Lizzy, Georgie, Chris, Kitty, and Sandy stood in the crowd at Rockefeller Center, looking down on the skating rink.
"This is too weird! It should be cold. We should be wearing heavy coats and wishing for steaming hot cocoa," complained Lizzy.
"I'm amazed the ice is staying frozen."
Kitty smirked. "OK, Sandy, I know you're from out in the countryside and all, but I thought that Iowa had refrigeration by now."
"Har har har!" retorted Sandy. "Be glad there's no snow, Girlie, or you'd be wearin' some for sure!"
"I'm glad it isn't cold," added Georgie. "Imagine how frozen we'd be by now. Look behind you, see all the people? If we hadn't gotten here early, we'd just be looking at the backs of other people."
"Poor little Georgie. You'd need a periscope! Or maybe I could hoist you up onto my shoulder." Chris started to pick her up.
"Put me down, silly!" She turned to Lizzy, "Do you come to the tree lighting every year?"
"Oh yes. I love it." Then, with a pointed look at Kitty, she said to Sandy, "Don't let some long-time New Yorker convince you that we're blasé about this. It's always thrilling. And taking someone to see it for his first time makes it better for all of us."
While Lizzy joked with Kitty and Sandy, Georgie and Chris scanned the crowd.
"Do you see him?" whispered Sandy.
"No, and it's getting near the starting time."
Meanwhile, way at the back of the crowd, Richard and Darcy could barely make out the top of the tree.
"This is hopeless, Rich. I had forgotten how crowded it gets."
"Fear not, cousin. Stick with me." Richard walked up to a man in a tan trench coat, showed some identification and had a muffled conversation.
The man turned to Will, "Right, sir, if you'll come with me."
Darcy looked at Richard quizzically. Richard shrugged and mouthed "Gotta go to work."
Will followed the man in the trenchcoat as they worked their way into the edge of the crowd. The man found a uniformed police officer and, after a repeat of the hushed conversation handed Darcy over to the officer.
"Stay right behind me, sir," said the officer. Then more loudly he said, "Excuse me, police business, coming through. Excuse me, madam. Excuse me, sir."
People they passed in the crowd looked at the officer and at Darcy, who was embarrassed at the special treatment. They probably think I'm a celebrity or else a pickpocket under arrest.
"I see them, officer. Thank you very much."
"No problem sir. Happy Holidays."
Darcy wriggled his way past a few more people and came up behind Georgie.
"Whew! I made it."
"Will! I was beginning to think you weren't going to get here."
"You won't believe it-Richard arranged a police escort."
"Huh?"
"He got a policeman to lead me here."
Chris listened to this exchange openmouthed. Then he remembered his manners.
"Good evening Mr. Dar-, um, Will."
"Hello, Chris." They shook hands. Then Will turned to greet Kitty and Sandy, and saw Lizzy.
"Hello, Ms Bennet. No Indiana Jones jacket tonight, I see." He looked at her bright red sweatshirt with its Christmas motif. As if my magic, Sandy and Kitty slipped to the other side of Chris and Georgie, leaving Darcy standing next to Lizzy.
"No, Mr. Darcy, it's too warm tonight for that jacket. Didn't bring the whip with me, either." She raised one eyebrow, as if in challenge.
"Right," he replied, nodding. "It's the crowd thing, I suppose."
She laughed and turned to look toward the Promenade, where the evening's program was under way.
"Ooh, this is my favorite part," cried Georgie as pairs skaters Ina and Zimmerman stepped out on the ice. "She's so tiny. Look at those spins, perfect"
"Look at how he picks her up. It's like she weighs nothing!"
"Doesn't it hurt her arm to be swung around like that?"
They all applauded as the skaters came to a stop.
"I once wanted to do that," sighed Georgie.
"Why didn't you?" asked Chris.
"Discipline. I wanted to be able to do double and triple jumps on the third lesson. I didn't have what it took to work at it the way you have to."
They could hear, but not see, a singer.
"Who's singing now? And where is she?"
"I don't know, they must have another stage set up somewhere else. It's usually all by the ice or in the Promenade. At least we got a good look at the skaters."
Sandy nudged Chris and pointed toward the small stage near the ice. "Awright! The Rockettes!"
"I don't know, it's kind of like looking at a red and white centipede, all those legs kicking at once." Darcy laughed out loud at that remark. He was developing an appreciation of Chris's sense of humor.
"Hey, I'd be willing to be in Santa's shoes now, in the midst of all those legs," laughed Sandy, as the dance ended with the women clustered around Santa Claus.
A wave of excitement swept through the crowd.
"Oh!" squealed Georgie. "They're ready to light the tree. There's the First Lady, do you see her?"
A woman standing nearby muttered, "Who picked out her coat-pink for the Christmas Tree lighting? Doesn't she have anything red or green?"
"Maybe she'll wear red to the lighting of the White House tree," said the man with her.
"I wonder if she has a leather jacket?" wondered Darcy softly.
The only person in the crowd who heard him was the one for whom the remark was made. Lizzy swatted at his arm and shushed him.
Ooohs and Ahhs rose from the crowd as the lights were turned on. The star on top flickered and Lizzy held her breath until it was fully lighted.
"Oh," she breathed. "Beautiful."
"Beautiful," agreed Darcy. But he wasn't looking at the tree.